In the sun-drenched fields of Maharashtra, where agriculture forms the backbone of rural life, a revolutionary initiative is transforming the way farmers power their irrigation pumps. As of September 29, 2025, the Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana 2.0 (MSKVY 2.0) stands as India's largest decentralized solar energy program, blending cutting-edge renewable technology with the timeless rhythm of farming. Launched to address chronic power shortages during peak daylight hours, this scheme promises reliable, cost-effective electricity for over 2.14 lakh farmers already benefiting from its rollout. With a revamped target of 16,000 MW solar capacity by the end of 2025—up from an initial 7,000 MW—MSKVY 2.0 is not just a policy; it's a lifeline for Maharashtra's agrarian economy, aligning with national goals like PM-KUSUM to solarize agricultural feeders and reduce carbon emissions.
Maharashtra, home to over 1.4 crore farmers, has long grappled with erratic electricity supply. Nighttime power availability forces farmers to irrigate under cover of darkness, leading to inefficiencies, higher costs, and environmental strain from diesel generators. MSKVY 2.0 flips this script by installing decentralized solar projects near high-agricultural-load substations, ensuring daytime power for pumps. This "Mission 2025" initiative, approved via government decision on May 8, 2023, and scaled up on September 13, 2024, aims for 30% feeder solarization by December 2025. As we edge closer to the deadline, recent milestones—like Avaada Group's commissioning of 11 solar plants in Yavatmal district just two weeks ago—signal accelerating momentum. This article dives deep into the scheme's benefits, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step application process, empowering farmers to harness the sun's power for a brighter future.
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The Genesis of MSKVY 2.0: From Vision to Mission 2025
The roots of MSKVY trace back to June 14, 2017, when the original Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana was born out of necessity. Farmers demanded daytime electricity to align irrigation with sunlight, while industries needed affordable nighttime power. The solution? Solarize agricultural feeders to generate clean energy where it's needed most—within 5-10 km of distribution substations dominated by farm loads.
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| MSKVY 2.0 Maharashtra Solar Farming Scheme |
The 2.0 upgrade, launched in mission mode, addresses implementation hurdles from the first phase, such as land acquisition delays and bidder hesitancy. Decentralized solar plants, ranging from 0.5 MW to 25 MW, are now fast-tracked for installation. By September 2025, Maharashtra has achieved 1,359 MW of operational capacity, benefiting 2.14 lakh farmers across districts like Nashik, Pune, and Yavatmal. The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) leads the charge, procuring 5,008 MW through competitive bidding approved by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) in early 2025. Incentives like a ₹0.25/kWh fiscal bonus for three years post-commissioning have spurred developer participation, with power purchase agreements (PPAs) signed for 9,144 MW and letters of award (LoAs) for 9,169 MW.
This isn't isolated progress. MSKVY 2.0 integrates seamlessly with the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM), unlocking 30% central financial assistance (capped at ₹1.05 crore/MW) alongside state subsidies. As Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis noted in April 2025, these projects slash MSEDCL's power purchase costs while fulfilling renewable purchase obligations (RPOs). Nationally recognized with 20 awards, including the Indian Smart Grid Forum honor, the scheme exemplifies how policy innovation—using GIS mapping, PM Gati Shakti portals, and special purpose vehicles (SPVs) for land leasing—can democratize clean energy.
Swachh Shehar Jodi 2025 Launch
MSKVY 2.0 Highlights
| Aspect | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Objective | Solarize 30% agricultural feeders (16,000 MW) by Dec 2025 for daytime power. |
| Current Progress | 1,359 MW operational, benefiting 2.14 lakh farmers as of Sep 2025. |
| Subsidies | 50% central + 30% state funding; farmers contribute 20%. |
| Benefits | Saves 50% on bills, cuts 10 lakh tonnes CO2, creates 5,000+ jobs. |
| Eligibility | Farmers with ag connection, 4–5 acres land near substations, no bill defaults. |
| Application Deadline | Phase II closes Nov 2025; apply at mahadascom.in. |
| Land Leasing Income | ₹21,000–₹30,000 per acre annually for 25 years. |
| Integration | Aligns with PM-KUSUM; uses GIS, PM Gati Shakti for efficiency. |
| Contact | Helpline: 1800-233-3435; visit MSEDCL offices for support. |
Maharashtra Mukhyamantri Toll Free Number 800 1232211
Key Benefits: Illuminating the Fields with Solar Power
At its core, MSKVY 2.0 is a boon for farmers, blending economic, environmental, and social dividends. Let's break down the transformative impacts.
Reliable Daytime Power Supply: The scheme's hallmark is uninterrupted electricity during sunlight hours (typically 5 AM to 7 PM), ideal for irrigation. In Yavatmal, Avaada's 11 plants now serve 14,900 farmers across 167 villages, eliminating the need for diesel pumps that guzzle fuel and emit pollutants. Early adopters report 20-30% higher crop yields from optimized watering schedules, especially for water-intensive crops like sugarcane and cotton in Maharashtra's drought-prone regions.
Cost Savings and Financial Incentives: Farmers save up to 50% on electricity bills, as solar power is virtually free post-installation. Under PM-KUSUM alignment, the funding model is equitable: 50% central financial assistance (CFA), 30% state subsidy, and just 20% farmer or developer contribution. Landowners leasing plots for solar parks earn steady income—₹21,000-₹30,000 per acre annually—turning fallow land into revenue streams. A three-year ₹0.25/kWh incentive for early commercial operation date (COD) projects further sweetens the deal, reducing overall tariffs to ₹2.50-₹3.00/kWh.
Environmental and Sustainability Gains: By curbing diesel use, MSKVY 2.0 cuts carbon emissions by an estimated 10 lakh tonnes annually once fully scaled. It promotes biodiversity through agrivoltaics—dual-use land where solar panels shade crops, reducing evaporation by 15-20%. Maharashtra's renewable energy mix strengthens, aiding India's net-zero ambitions by 2070. As per a 2025 SolarQuarter report, decentralized generation minimizes transmission losses (down to 5% vs. 20% in grid systems), making power delivery greener and more efficient.
Socio-Economic Empowerment: Beyond farms, the scheme creates jobs—over 5,000 in construction and maintenance by mid-2025—prioritizing local youth. Women-led cooperatives in Beed and Ahmednagar have formed SPVs to manage projects, fostering financial inclusion. Health benefits abound too: Reduced diesel fumes mean fewer respiratory issues in rural households. Nationally, MSKVY 2.0 inspires states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan to replicate its model, positioning Maharashtra as a solar agriculture leader.
In essence, these benefits ripple outward. A farmer in Dhondalgaon village, where the first 3 MW park activated in September 2024, shared: "Solar power means I irrigate at dawn, harvest more, and sleep better—no more midnight vigils for generators." With 1,000 MW targeted by year-end 2025, the scheme's momentum is palpable.
Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana Kyc Online Process
Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies for Solar Sunshine?
MSKVY 2.0 is inclusive yet targeted, ensuring benefits reach genuine stakeholders. Primary eligibility revolves around agricultural consumers and land suitability, with no upper income cap to encourage broad participation.
For Farmers and Agricultural Consumers:
- Must hold a valid agricultural electricity connection or be a registered farmer with the local tehsildar.
- Farmland should have an assured water source (e.g., wells, canals) to maximize solar pump utility.
- Priority for those in agriculture-dominated feeders (over 60% farm load), identified via MSEDCL surveys.
Exclusions: Farmers with existing conventional grid connections for pumps won't qualify for off-grid solar under this scheme, but can benefit from feeder solarization. No diesel pump owners are barred, promoting a shift from fossils.
For Landowners and Developers:
- Revenue or private land within 5-10 km of substations, free from disputes, and at least 4-5 acres per MW capacity.
- Soil must support ground-mounted PV systems; barren or unirrigated plots are ideal to avoid crop displacement.
- Developers bidding via MSEDCL must be registered with the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) and demonstrate technical/financial prowess.
Additional Requirements:
- Aadhaar-linked bank account for subsidies.
- No defaults on electricity bills.
- For cooperatives or groups: Minimum 10 members, with women comprising at least 30%.
As of September 2025, over 3 lakh farmers have pre-registered, with MSEDCL verifying via GIS tools. Vulnerable groups—smallholders under 2 hectares and SC/ST communities—receive priority scoring in allocations. This criteria ensures equitable distribution, with 40% projects earmarked for Vidarbha and Marathwada, Maharashtra's less-developed regions.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025?
Applying for MSKVY 2.0 is streamlined via digital portals, minimizing bureaucracy. With the 2025 deadline looming, act swiftly—registrations close in November for Phase II.
Step 1: Check Eligibility and Register Online
- Visit the official MSKVY portal: www.mahadiscom.in/solar-mskvy or the Energy Department site: energy.maharashtra.gov.in.
- Click "Beneficiary Registration" and select "MSKVY 2.0 – Feeder Solarization" or "Solar Pump" under PM-KUSUM Component B.
- Enter Aadhaar, mobile number, and district. Upload land records (7/12 extract) and electricity bill.
Step 2: Submit Application and Documents
- Fill the form with pump details (HP rating), water source proof, and consent for site survey.
- Required docs: Ration card, bank passbook, NOC from gram panchayat, and soil test report (for land leasers).
- Submit via portal; receive SMS acknowledgment with reference ID.
- MSEDCL/MEDA teams conduct site visits within 15 days, assessing feeder load and solar viability.
- Approval letter arrives in 30 days via email/SMS. Subsidies (up to 80% CFA + state aid) disburse directly to vendor accounts.
Step 4: Installation and Commissioning
- Empaneled vendors (e.g., Avaada, Sunkind) handle EPC work within 90-120 days.
- COD triggers metered power supply and incentive payments.
- Offline Option: Approach MSEDCL circle offices or taluka agriculture departments for assisted filing. Helpline: 1800-233-3435. For solar pumps, use the KUSUM portal: pmkusum.mnre.gov.in.
Track status online; appeals for rejections go to the district collector. In 2025, digital integration with PM Gati Shakti has cut processing time by 40%.
Conclusion
A Solar-Powered Harvest AheadAs September 2025 unfolds, MSKVY 2.0 isn't just electrifying feeders—it's igniting hope. From cost savings to climate resilience, this scheme empowers Maharashtra's farmers to thrive amid climate challenges. With 16,000 MW on the horizon, the state is poised to lead India's green revolution. If you're a farmer eyeing solar, apply today; the sun waits for no one. For updates, follow MSEDCL's portal or local agriculture extensions. Together, let's cultivate a sustainable tomorrow—one watt at a time.
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FAQs on Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY) 2.0
Q. What is MSKVY 2.0, and what is its main objective?
Answer: MSKVY 2.0 is a Maharashtra government initiative to solarize agricultural electricity feeders, ensuring reliable daytime power for irrigation pumps. Launched in mission mode in 2023, it aims to achieve 30% feeder solarization (16,000 MW) by December 2025, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, cutting electricity costs, and aligning with PM-KUSUM for sustainable farming.
Q. Who is eligible to benefit from MSKVY 2.0?
- Farmers: Must have a valid agricultural electricity connection or be registered with the local tehsildar. Priority is given to those in agriculture-dominated feeders (over 60% farm load). Farmers with assured water sources (e.g., wells, canals) qualify for solar pumps.
- Landowners: Those with 4-5 acres of dispute-free land within 5-10 km of substations can lease it for solar projects.
- Cooperatives: Groups with at least 10 members (30% women) can apply for collective projects.
- Additional Criteria: Aadhaar-linked bank account, no electricity bill defaults, and priority for smallholders (under 2 hectares) and SC/ST communities.
Q. What are the key benefits of MSKVY 2.0 for farmers?
- Reliable Power: Uninterrupted daytime electricity (5 AM–7 PM) for irrigation, boosting crop yields by 20-30%.
- Cost Savings: Up to 50% reduction in electricity bills; solar pumps are nearly free post-installation.
- Subsidies: 50% central financial assistance (up to ₹1.05 crore/MW) and 30% state subsidy, with farmers contributing only 20%.
- Land Leasing Income: ₹21,000–₹30,000 per acre annually for landowners.
- Environmental Impact: Cuts 10 lakh tonnes of CO2 annually by reducing diesel use.
- Job Creation: Over 5,000 local jobs in solar plant construction and maintenance.
Q. How can farmers apply for MSKVY 2.0 in 2025?
- Register Online: Visit www.mahadiscom.in/solar-mskvy or energy.maharashtra.gov.in. Select “Beneficiary Registration” for feeder solarization or solar pumps (PM-KUSUM Component B).
- Submit Details: Provide Aadhaar, mobile number, land records (7/12 extract), electricity bill, pump details (HP rating), and water source proof.
- Upload Documents: Include ration card, bank passbook, gram panchayat NOC, and soil test report (for land leasing).
- Verification: MSEDCL/MEDA conducts site surveys within 15 days. Approval is issued in 30 days via SMS/email.
- Installation: Empaneled vendors complete setup in 90-120 days.
- Offline Option: Visit MSEDCL circle offices or taluka agriculture departments. Helpline: 1800-233-3435.
Q. What types of solar projects are included in MSKVY 2.0?
- Decentralized Solar Plants: 0.5 MW to 25 MW capacity near substations to power agricultural feeders.
- Solar Pumps: Individual off-grid pumps for farmers under PM-KUSUM Component B.
- Agrivoltaics: Dual-use systems where solar panels shade crops, reducing water evaporation by 15-20%.
Q. What financial incentives are available under MSKVY 2.0?
- Subsidies: 50% central and 30% state funding, with farmers or developers covering 20%.
- Incentives for Developers: ₹0.25/kWh bonus for three years for projects meeting early commercial operation dates (COD).
- Affordable Tariffs: Power purchase agreements ensure rates of ₹2.50–₹3.00/kWh, lowering MSEDCL’s costs.
- Land Leasing: Annual payments of ₹21,000–₹30,000 per acre for 25 years.
Q. Can farmers with existing grid connections participate?
- Farmers with grid-connected pumps can benefit from feeder solarization but not individual off-grid solar pumps. Those using diesel pumps are eligible for solar pump installation to transition to clean energy.8. How is land selected for MSKVY 2.0 solar projects?Answer:Land must be within 5-10 km of substations with high agricultural load.
- Minimum 4-5 acres per MW, dispute-free, and preferably barren or unirrigated to avoid crop displacement.
- Soil must support ground-mounted PV systems.
- GIS mapping and PM Gati Shakti portals streamline site selection.
Q. What is the progress of MSKVY 2.0 as of September 2025?
- As of September 30, 2025, MSKVY 2.0 has:Achieved 1,359 MW operational capacity, serving 2.14 lakh farmers.
- Signed PPAs for 9,144 MW and issued LoAs for 9,169 MW.
- Commissioned 11 solar plants in Yavatmal (Avaada Group), benefiting 14,900 farmers across 167 villages.
- Targeted 1,000 MW more by December 2025, with 40% projects in Vidarbha and Marathwada.
Q. How does MSKVY 2.0 integrate with PM-KUSUM?
MSKVY 2.0 aligns with PM-KUSUM Component A (feeder solarization) and Component B (solar pumps). It leverages 50% central financial assistance (up to ₹1.05 crore/MW) and uses KUSUM’s digital platform for applications, ensuring seamless funding and implementation.